NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Research conducted at Vanderbilt University Medical Center has indicated that autism diagnoses in Tennessee have doubled over the past decade.

According to researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the prevalence of autism among children in Tennessee has increased from 1 in 68 in 2014 to the current rate of 1 in 29 — exceeding 3% of the child population across the state.

“The awareness and also parents now are not in as much denial,” a father and the executive director for Jacob’s Audible, Brad Meshell, explained.

“Now, we are more aware and more alert. Hey, listen: if our kiddos aren’t hitting these milestones, we need to do something,” Meshell said.

Doctors explained that this rise is partly due to increased awareness of autism, advancements in diagnostic methodologies, and more comprehensive studies. Concurrently, they suggested that there may have been a “true increase” in autism cases.

“These findings strongly encourage us to develop effective care systems that can serve 3%-5% of children with autism,” stated Dr. Zachary Warren from the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center’s TRIAD.

“There’s a sense of isolation and confusion regarding state funding — particularly how resources are allocated,” Meshell noted. “…Often, the delay in obtaining a diagnosis stems from a shortage of available doctors.”

Meshell emphasized the necessity of enhancing support for families in rural areas with limited healthcare access. In his role with the nonprofit Jacob’s Audible, he is dedicated to extending resources to as many families as possible.

“We do our best to offer respite care,” Meshell said. “If they need a babysitter or if they need time off from work, we are able to show them resources that insurance takes.”

Meshell told News 2 that while he’d lad to see awareness about autism making national headlines, he hopes it also brings more attention to needed resources for the current kids and families.

“We just encourage parents not to give up,” Meshell concluded. “You are not alone.”